Moroccan mound

Moroccan mound is a dense succulent shrub with branching, four-angled stems and gray-green spines that build a dense cushion. It is native to the hills of Morocco’s Great Atlas range and is used as an accent or container plant. ## Growing Conditions Provide a bright position and very well-drained soil. The University of Arizona Campus Arboretum records a broad mature range of 0–5 feet in both height and width; the catalog’s existing height and width points fall within that range. Use a container with drainage and allow the root zone to dry between waterings. ## Seasonal Interest The dense, spiny architecture remains visible year-round, and the arboretum describes the species as winter evergreen. Small yellow flowers are reported in spring. Its eventual spread can be several feet, so leave room for the mound to widen. ## Maintenance The arboretum characterizes this as a low-maintenance species. Avoid excess moisture around the roots and handle the spiny stems carefully when repotting or removing damaged growth. [University of Arizona Campus Arboretum’s Moroccan-mound record](https://apps.cals.arizona.edu/arboretum/taxon.aspx?id=1073) provides the botanical identity, growth range, and landscape notes.